Security threats have already moved on from COVID-19-themed attacks, report finds

Security threats in the second quarter of 2020 continue to target remote workers, but attackers aren't relying on COVID-19-themed phishing: They're going straight for vulnerable home networks where workers are conducting business.

Managed security provider Nuspire's report on security threats in Q2 2020 said that phishing attempts have ditched the coronavirus in favor of exploiting the upcoming election and Black Lives Matter movement, but that there's been a 12% decline in malware attacks during Q2.  

In place of malware-laden emails, botnet action has increased by 29%, and exploit attacks that can take advantage of workers in less-secure home offices have increased by 13%. "The pandemic has complicated an already complex threat landscape," said Nuspire CEO Lewie Dunsworth. "Threat vectors will continue to evolve as the uncertainty of our world continues to play out," Dunsworth added.